As we welcome the month of August, we also enter one of the warmest periods of the year across much of Turtle Island. Longer days, intense sunshine, and higher temperatures remind us that we are in the heart of summer, a season that carries unique meaning across many Indigenous Nations.

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Heat affects more than our physical well-being. Research has consistently shown that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can reduce concentration, increase fatigue, affect decision-making, and contribute to irritability, stress, and emotional distress. During periods of extreme heat, it becomes even more important to care for ourselves and our communities by staying hydrated, seeking rest, and checking in on elders, children, and others who may be more vulnerable. Caring for one another has always been a strength within Indigenous communities.

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For many AI/AN, and First Nations communities, summer is also a season of gathering, renewal, and cultural celebration. Across Turtle Island, August is often filled with powwows, cultural festivals, ceremonial gatherings, language camps, subsistence activities, and opportunities to reconnect with family, community, and ancestral traditions. While traditions vary greatly among Nations, this time of year often reflects gratitude, relationship, and the continuation of cultural knowledge across generations.

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Powwows, in particular, are far more than public celebrations. They are living expressions of culture, identity, resilience, and community. For many participants, powwows provide opportunities to reconnect with relatives, honor veterans, celebrate youth, strengthen intergenerational relationships, and experience the healing that comes from belonging. Although Indigenous peoples have long understood the importance of cultural connection for well-being, psychology and public health research is increasingly demonstrating that participation in traditional cultural practices is associated with stronger cultural identity, increased resilience, greater social support, and improved mental health outcomes. Culture itself is increasingly recognized as a protective factor that promotes wellness.

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As Indigenous psychologists, students, researchers, practitioners, and allies, we know that healing occurs not only within clinical spaces but also within our communities, our languages, our ceremonies, our songs, and our relationships with one another. August offers an opportunity to reflect on the many ways that culture continues to sustain our collective well-being.

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To those beginning a new academic year, we extend our warmest wishes. Whether you are starting your first psychology course, entering graduate school, beginning internship, or continuing your educational journey, we hope this semester brings curiosity, growth, and meaningful connections. Your voice, perspective, and lived experiences are essential to the future of psychology.

If you are a student, we invite you to become involved with the SIP. Connect with our Student Representatives, explore opportunities to serve, and sign up for our mentorship program. Mentorship is one of the most meaningful ways we strengthen our community, by learning from those who have walked before us while supporting those who will carry this work into the future.

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As we move through the remainder of summer, may August bring you moments of rest, opportunities for connection, and renewed purpose in your work and studies. We wish you a safe, healthy, and inspiring month, and we look forward to growing together as a community dedicated to advancing Indigenous psychology.

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Happy August from all of us at the Society of Indian Psychologists.

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Holding Mental Health with Compassion

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If you or someone you love is experiencing emotional distress, crisis, or thoughts of self-harm, support is available:

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• United States: Call or text 988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7)

• Canada: Talk Suicide Canada at 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645 (evenings)

• StrongHearts Native Helpline (U.S.): 1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483) — confidential, culturally-grounded support for Native and Indigenous peoples affected by violence

• If you are in immediate danger, please contact local emergency services
   

If you are outside these regions, we encourage reaching out to local Indigenous organizations, health centers, or community leaders for culturally relevant support.

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Psychology, Insurance, and Policy Updates for 2025–2026

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Updates: The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released the CY2025 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule on July 10, 2024. Find more info: https://www.apaservices.org/practice/reimbursement/government/cms-federal-rule 
 

Medicare changes in 2025. The final rule on the 2025 Medicare physician fee schedule brings some good news for psychologists and aims to increase access to behavioral health services. https://www.apaservices.org/practice/reimbursement/government/2025-medicare-changes
 

Extensions of Telehealth access options. https://telehealth.hhs.gov/providers/telehealth-policy/telehealth-policy-updates.
But how are the Reservations embracing digital sovereignty? 
 

Digital mental health treatment: CMS expanded payment policies for digital mental health treatment devices under codes G0552, G0553, and G0554 for CY 2026.

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Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act Final Rules (“Final Rules”) Are Released: Plans and Issuers Must Prepare for January 1, 2025 Effective Date (US). Find more info: https://www.triagehealthlawblog.com/hhs/mental-health-parity-and-addiction-equity-act-final-rules-final-rules-are-released-plans-and-issuers-must-prepare-for-january-1-2025-effective-date-us/ .Mental Health Parity: The 2024 Mental Health Parity final rule had staggered applicability dates beginning in 2025 and 2026, but federal agencies later announced a pause in enforcement of certain new provisions while they reconsider the rule.